AN ENCHANTING MANTA RAY NIGHT SNORKEL TOUR WITH ONE OF THE ORIGINAL MANTA RAY TOUR COMPANIES SINCE 1985
As the sun lowers over Kona, the sky turns gold and the Pacific shimmers like liquid amber. It’s the perfect time to set sail aboard Hoku Nui, our 50-foot luxury catamaran, for an evening that blends beauty, learning, and adventure.
This Sunset Manta Ray Tour is the first departure of the night—ideal for snorkelers and families with younger participants who prefer an earlier return. Departing from Keauhou Bay, we sail toward the nearby manta viewing zone often called “Manta Village.” Along the way, you’ll watch the sun sink into the horizon while the crew prepares custom light rafts that illuminate the water and attract plankton for the mantas’ evening feeding.
Want to learn more about these incredible animals before you go? Explore our guide to manta rays in Kailua-Kona, or visit our FAQ for what to expect on the water.
After you board Hoku Nui, we travel to the world famous, Manta Ray Village. Manta rays are gentle giants of the sea, with many residing along the Kona Coast.
Harmless to humans, they are drawn to the spotlights that light up the night to eat plankton. These mesmerizing creatures sometimes gracefully glide within inches of amazed snorkelers.
Swimming with the Kona manta rays is often the highlight of visitors’ trips to Hawaii. Sea Paradise is an original manta ray tour expert in Hawaii, helping its guests get up close and personal with these majestic creatures since 1985.
Adults: $130 + Tax & Fees
Children: $115 + Tax & Fees
Ride Alongs: $65 + Tax & Fees
**A ride Along under 18 yrs. must have an adult in their group supervising onboard at all times.
“Watching the sun set before the mantas arrived was pure magic — an evening we’ll never forget.” — Tara W., Vancouver
“Great for families! The crew was amazing with our kids and kept everyone safe and comfortable.” — Daniel & Leilani C., Honolulu
“Seeing the mantas in the twilight light felt spiritual — they came so close and moved so gracefully.” — Jocelyn H., San Diego
“Even as a Ride-Along, I felt immersed in the moment — the crew made it special for everyone aboard.” — Luis M., Denver
“Educational and beautifully run. Our kids learned so much about the mantas and the ocean.” — Elena R., Milan
As the colors soften into twilight, our crew begins an interactive briefing covering manta behavior, reef protection, and Hawaiian cultural context. You’ll learn why these gentle giants return to the same spots night after night—and how light attracts the plankton they feed on.
For additional details on requirements and what to bring, visit our Frequently Asked Questions and review our medical and participation guidance before booking.
Once anchored, you’ll float gently on our custom light boards as the mantas arrive—often with wingspans reaching up to 16 feet. They loop and roll beneath you in a silent, slow ballet that feels truly otherworldly.
Curious what makes this experience so unique? Read more about manta rays in Kona and what draws them to the viewing sites along this coastline.
Relax and let the mantas come to you. Sudden movement or diving toward them can startle these gentle animals and disrupt their natural feeding behavior.
Physical contact can damage the mantas’ protective mucus layer, which helps keep them healthy. Observing respectfully ensures a safe experience for both guests and wildlife.
Keep voices low, remain aware of your surroundings, and share the moment with aloha so everyone can enjoy the magic unfolding beneath the surface.
These guidelines are part of our commitment to ethical wildlife encounters. Learn more about our approach on our Responsible Tourism page or visit our FAQ for additional guest expectations.
After your snorkel, unwind on the return sail aboard Hoku Nui, our spacious and stable 50-foot catamaran. Enjoy warm drinks, chocolates, and relaxed storytelling as the Kona coastline drifts by under the night sky.
The vessel’s smooth ride, thoughtful amenities, and attentive crew create a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere—making this experience just as memorable for first-time snorkelers and families as it is for seasoned ocean lovers.
Curious about what makes Hoku Nui so special? Take a closer look at our vessel or read guest stories on our Reviews page.
Our team shares stories rooted in Hawaiian respect for the ocean—from legends of Kanaloa, the ocean deity, to modern efforts focused on stewardship and conservation. These traditions remind us that the sea is not just a place to visit, but a living system to honor and protect.
By joining Sea Paradise, you support ethical manta research and reef-safe education programs designed to preserve this fragile marine environment. Our tours are guided by principles of responsible tourism, helping ensure that manta rays and coral reefs remain healthy for future generations.
To learn more about our approach to conservation and sustainable ocean experiences, explore our guide to responsible tourism in Hawaiʻi and discover why Kona’s waters are considered a marine sanctuary.
Please sign your waivers for each guest (link found in your confirmation e-mail) and check in near the boat at Keauhou Bay located at the pier at the end of Kaleiopapa Street, Kailua Kona, HI 96740. Please do not check in at any buildings. Public restrooms are located on the east side of Kaleiopapa Street near the end parking lot. Restrooms are also onboard our vessel. Parking is limited at the pier. Free parking is available along Kaleiopapa St. Please check in with crew in blue shirts 15 minutes prior to departure at the end of the pier and allow 3-5 minutes to walk from your vehicle to the boat. Be sure to wear swimwear for your wetsuit fittings prior to boarding.
Check in times are seasonal. Please see your confirmation email for current check in times.
Length of Tour: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hrs from departure time.
Location: Keauhou Bay (Departure & Return) Keauhou Bay located at the pier at the end of Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Dress comfortably for your Hawaii snorkeling tour. Bring swimwear, towel, a cover-up, and a light jacket or sweater for after you’re out of the water. You may also bring an underwater camera – just make sure the flash is turned off. Note that we have limited space to stow gear and keep it dry. Sea Paradise operates “shoe-less boats,” so wear sandals or slippers that are easy to remove. Gratuity is not included in the price of the tour, but tips are greatly appreciated. Upload your favorite photos to us on Instagram or Facebook and hashtag #seaparadisehawaii.
Adults: $130 + Tax & Fees
Children: $115 + Tax & Fees
Ride Alongs: $65 + Tax & Fees
**A ride Along under 18 yrs. must have an adult in their group supervising onboard at all times.
Departure times vary slightly with the seasons, but the First Manta Ray Tour typically leaves around sunset to capture the transition from daylight to dusk. This timing allows guests to enjoy golden-hour views on the way out and encounter manta rays as night falls. For current departure windows, visit our First & Second Manta Ray Tour page.
Yes. The First Manta Ray Tour is especially popular with families who prefer an earlier evening experience. Children who are strong, confident swimmers are welcome to join the snorkel portion, while those who prefer to stay dry may participate as Ride-Along Guests under the supervision of a parent or guardian. Additional participation guidelines can be found in our FAQ and medical information pages.
The Sunset Manta Tour emphasizes golden-hour scenery and an earlier return time, making it ideal for families and guests who prefer not to be out late. The Late-Night Manta Tour often feels quieter and more intimate, with darker skies and fewer vessels on the water. You can compare both experiences on our manta ray tour overview.
We recommend wearing a swimsuit under comfortable clothing and bringing a towel along with a light jacket or hoodie for the cooler ride back. Reef-safe sunscreen is encouraged for daytime exposure. All snorkel gear, wetsuits, and flotation devices are provided, and warm drinks and chocolates are served after your snorkel. For more preparation tips, see our travel tips and responsible tourism guide.
Yes. Ride-Along Guests can observe the illuminated water from the deck of Hoku Nui and often see manta rays gliding beneath the surface near the light boards. Ride-Along Guests also enjoy the sunset, star-filled skies, and crew storytelling—making it a memorable experience without entering the ocean.
If you’re still deciding which adventure fits your group best, explore our guide to top water activities in Kona or browse guest experiences on our Reviews page.
Departures at Keauhou Bay
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740
Phone: 808-322-2500
